Galway’s first playground for dogs has opened for tourists, with pets staying in student accommodation this summer.

The dog playground – clós spraoi na madraí – is located at Dunlin Village student accommodation complex on University of Galway campus near Dangan.

But the green space for canines is for short-term visitors staying in the apartments during summer only – university students are not allowed to keep pets in on-campus residences during the academic year.

“Only guide dogs are permitted,” according to University of Galway’s student residences’ online information page.

Dunlin Village is managed by Atalia Student Residences DAC, a wholly owned subsidiary of University of Galway.

The dog playground – a green space enclosed by wooden fencing – was an added attraction to coax visitors to the ‘pet-friendly’ destination.

A sign at the dog playground contains a list of rules, including that pets must be well-trained, well-mannered and up to date with vaccinations.

“Owners are responsible for the good behaviour of their pets at all times and pets should be kept on a lead when outside of your apartment and in any public areas of the village complex,” it said.

Pets must not be left alone at any time, and the owners are responsible for cleaning up after their dogs, the dog playground rules stated.

Dunlin Village marketed itself as a ‘pet-friendly’ destination with self-catering apartments suitable for people bringing dogs.

“We love pets as much as you! Book one of our dedicated pet-friendly apartments and rest assured knowing both you and your pet will receive a warm welcome and have a comfortable stay,” its website said.

The riverside campus walkways at Dangan are already a magnet for local pet owners who walk their dogs there daily, but the dog playground is a new addition for visiting  canines.

Pictured: The temporary playground has a list of rules pinned to its gate.